LONELINESS and debt are the top festive worries this year as the Samaritans predict a dramatic rise in calls.

The national charity expects to take a call every six seconds this Christmas and New Year - an insight into just how many people will be celebrating Christmas on their own.

Samaritans workers in Huddersfield will be on call 24/7 to offer emotional support to those who need it.

Pauline Rawlinson, Samaritans worker at the Huddersfield branch, said: "A lot of people who are on their own particularly feel lonely and isolated around Christmas time.

"Christmas is a time when we are supposed to be with family and friends and we must remember not everyone has this."

The Samaritans have 17,000 volunteers currently working throughout the UK and Ireland to offer

confidential and non-judgmental support and advice to everybody.

Last year, 92% of contacts to Samaritans were by phone - a total of 2.4 million in all.

Ms Rawlinson said: "Many people of all ages and backgrounds call throughout the year and we are there for them 24/7, answering every single call we receive.

"We offer the opportunity for people to talk to us, whatever their problems or worries may be.

"We also offer emotional support which many of them are not getting at home."

Rebecca Seedhouse is the Samaritans Deputy Director of Fundraising and External Relations.

She said: "For some people the bright lights of Christmas can actually emphasise any problems they may have.

"Seeing everyone else apparently having fun all around them can be really tough, especially if they are on their own, or even if they are with family and friends.

"People can contact Samaritans about many emotional issues and the sooner you make contact, the better."

Debt is also a big concern for many. TV money saving expert Martin Lewis believes many people feel they are obliged to spend a lot of money around Christmas and therefore get themselves into unmanageable debt.

"Sadly, Christmas has become a consumer festival, and shops and adverts pump out a 'spend, spend, spend' message," he said.

"This puts many into debt, and leaves those with less cash feeling worried that they can't give their family every last dream present.

"People need to learn to plan their activities around what they can afford to spend at Christmas.

"After all, Christmas is just one day and it is far more important to have a financially fit year."